Grade 1 is the first cello level in SightReadingMastery. Pieces in grade 1 cello are 4-6 bars long, depending on the time signature. G and D major are the only possible keys, and playing is limited to first position with the C string omitted. All notes are separately bowed, and only simple note values, rests and dynamics are included.
Grade 1 Cello Sight Reading Exercise
Try this free cello sight reading piece to get a sense of what you can expect in grade 1.
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Tips for Grade 1 Cello Sight Reading
- Get situated with your cello where you can comfortably see the piece (an iPad or other tablet is especially convenient for this, as you can set it right on your music stand; print this page if needed)
- Take 30 seconds to look over the piece before you attempt to sight read it
- Once you've started, keep going no matter what – learning not to stop even when you make a mistake is one of the most important skills in cello sight reading
- When you're finished playing, press the "Listen" button to hear a correct performance of the exercise; take a moment to reflect on how you did